Sir Francis Dashwood

The Hellfire Club Wino

Sir Francis Dashwood was the founder of the notorious High Wycombe branch of the 18th century Hellfire Club whose gatherings took place in the West Wycombe Caves, also known as the Hell-Fire Caves. During meetings members supposedly wore ritual clothing: white trousers, jacket and cap; while the "Abbot" wore a red ensemble of the same style. Many rumours of black magic, satanic rituals and orgies were in circulation during the life of the club. Other clubs, especially in Ireland and Scotland, were rumoured to take part in far more dubious activities. Rumours saw female "guests" (a euphemism for prostitutes) referred to as "nuns". Dashwood's club meetings often included mock rituals, pornographic materials, much drinking, wenching and banqueting.